Christmas came early for Cantos in 2010. In October, the Cantos Music Foundation announced that both the federal government and the Province of Alberta will commit $25 million each towards the building of Canada’s National Music Centre (NMC) in the historic King Eddy Hotel.

Combined with the City of Calgary’s $25 million commitment earlier this year, the grants mean that NMC is now officially on its way to realization as it continues to seek private donations to complete the vision.

Just over two years ago, CMLC initiated a national campaign for new ideas to celebrate the colourful history of the King Eddy and rejuvenate the hotel. While that search uncovered some unique ideas, none fit the vision of East Village quite as well as the National Music Centre that Cantos envisioned.

“We’re so grateful to all three levels of government for their support of this project,” said NMC President and CEO Andrew Mosker. “We also thank Canadians for making an investment in a place that will connect them to each other and our heritage through the power of music.”

The $120 – $130 million NMC will be 80,000 square feet of musical magic, inviting Canadians to a place that amplifies the love, sharing and understanding of music through collections and exhibitions, programs, research and collaborations across the country.

We look forward to working with Cantos and once again, congratulations, neighbour!